Students in Nevada will now have mental health days built into their school schedules, as the state is trying to address mental health issues and save lives in the process.
Gov. Steve Sisolak signed a new Senate bill into law that will help address mental health issues among students head-on.
For many young adults in school, the pandemic created difficult challenges that impacted the mental health of many students at Bishop Gorman High School.
With classes being shifted to distance learning and days without seeing friends regularly, many students were having to take mental health days as unexcused absences.
Student, Caroline Edgeworth, explained, “A break from the schoolwork and the pressure. Sometimes it’s like taking a sick day. It’s just as important as your physical health.”
But with Senta Bill 249 in place, mental and behavioral health professionals will be able to excuse student absences from school and every student will receive three mental health days.
Nevada Sen.Marilyn Dondero Loop, a sponsor of the bill, shared that her own life experiences with her grandchildren helped her understand the need for mental health days amidst students.
She said, “I’ve watched them even this year struggle with their studies and emotionally as they were away from their friends and all their activities.”
Mental health professional, Dr. Sheldon Jacobs, explained that the new legislation arrived at an optimal time. In recent months the Doctor has been seeing an uptick in students facing depression and anxiety. Dr. Jacobs and his peers feel they will have an active role in providing mental health days.
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Audacy’s I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-273-8255.